How long do residential solar panels last?
Multiple factors affect the productive lifespan of a residential solar panel. In the first part of this series, we look at the solar panels themselves.
Keep your solar cells dry
Scientists in Norway used various imaging and characterization techniques to analyze the cells and other components of silicon PV modules that had been installed in the field for more than 10 years. The group’s aim was to isolate the role of moisture in various mechanisms that cause performance loss over time, and to understand how these mechanisms progress over long-term installation in real outdoor conditions.
Ten most common rooftop solar safety risks
Clean Energy Associates found a myriad of problems at solar installations around the world, noting that because most are caused by poor installation practices, many can be identified and resolved relatively easily before they lead to fires, safety risks and potentially costly liabilities.
The top causes of solar performance issues
A staggering 62% of inspected projects in USA were identified to have critical or major issues in a report by HelioVolt.
Spotlight on TOPCon: PI Berlin shares concerns about degradation
Asier Ukar, the director of PI Berlin Spain, discusses the importance of addressing the risks associated with tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) tech early on, even though it outperforms (passivated emitter rear contact (PERC) when considering standard and tangible indicators.
Waaree Energies rated top performer in PVEL’s 2023 PV Module Reliability Scorecard
India’s Waaree Energies has been recognized as Top Performer after its solar modules met international quality and performance benchmarks set by PVEL.
Adani Solar modules rated top performer for sixth consecutive year
Adani Solar has been rated as a Top Performer in PV Evolution Labs’ PV Module Reliability Scorecard 2023, becoming the only Indian PV manufacturer to secure this title for six consecutive years.
Premier Energies solar panels rated ‘Top Performer’ by PVEL
Premier Energies’ 88 modules spanning 400 W, 450 W, 500 W, and 540 W series qualified as Top Performer after PVEL’s rigorous Product Qualification Program.
Vikram Solar modules top performer for fifth consecutive year
Vikram Solar’s Paradea mono PERC 144-cell bifacial glass-glass modules have won the Top Performer position in PV Evolution Labs’ 2023 PV Module Reliability Scorecard. With this, Vikram Solar has claimed the title for the fifth consecutive year and the sixth time in the last seven years.
Avoiding PV buyer’s remorse
New entrants to solar equipment procurement may be surprised to encounter constantly amended contract terms, index-linked price rises, and near-worthless defect warranties, but they reflect recent supply chain troubles. Clean Energy Associates’ Martin Deak offers a buyers guide.
